51 Bulawayo Buildings Face Demolition

Munashe Mukahlera

ZIMBABWE’S second largest city, Bulawayo is considering demolishing 51 run down buildings that are not being fully utilized.

The local authority says it has tried to engage building owners to refurbish their properties, but in vain. Council has since sought a court order to carry out the demolitions.

One of the buildings facing demolition is at the intersection of Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo street and 11th avenue which was destroyed by fire in 2017.

“It is prudent that owners maintain the status of their properties in an orderly and attractive manner,” she said.

Bulawayo progressive residents’ association’s secretary for administration, Thembelani Dube, also weighed in on the resolution by the local authority.

“We welcome the Bulawayo city council resolution to demolish the building at the intersection of Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo street and 11th avenue. The building is contributing to what we refer to as visual pollution as well as urban decay. The building which is an eyesore to the city has become a haven for criminals since it is abandoned,” he said.